Police said officers were called to the store in the 5700 block of Columbia Road in Columbia around 2:35 a.m. Friday after a masked man, armed with the handgun, approached an employee, handed him a bag and ordered him to empty the registers.

Police said another employee was also confronted by the suspect, who then fled.

The robber is described as a man, unknown race, about 5 feet 7 inches, 130 to 140 pounds, wearing a black mask, black hooded sweatshirt, black and white gloves, and jeans.

Police are asking anyone with information to call 410-313-STOP. Callers may remain anonymous. Citizens may also provide anonymous tips through the free smartphone app, "iWatchHowardCounty."

Images: Armed robber strikes at Columbia 7-Eleven

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Raw video Armed robber strikes at 7-Eleven

Howard County police are asking for the public's help to identify an armed robber who struck at a 7-Eleven store in Columbia.

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